Need help deciding....

Hi, I have a friend who wants to buy a guitar. He likes Epiphone Les Pauls, but I told him to stay away because he is into metal. I did the same thing and bought a Les Paul and I wish I hadn't because of the lack of upper fret access and playability form fast metal. But he insists because he is a fan of Zakk Wylde. So, here is what he is looking for. Les Paul or something similar. Budget is $400-$500 in Canadian dollars.